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Asthma/Wheezing while inhaling

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Expert: - 3/17/2008


Question
A few times per year I have these episodes of wheezing while inhaling.  It's accompanied by coughing up fluid.  The fluid is clear and watery.

The episodes (as far as I can remember) happen at night, just before bed, maybe when I first lay down.

Usually lasts a few hours and then clears up.

It's happened for many years now, since probably my mid 20's, I'm 37 now.  I've heard that fluid can build up due to heart issues, but that would be surprising at such a young age.

What else could cause this, and is there any sort of treatment that would make the episode stop sooner.

Answer
Hi John,

Your description of clear, watery fluids is not consistent with the mucus plugs and higher viscosity fluids seen in asthma, as well as wheezing on inhalation. I'm sorry, but I think you should see a pulmonologist to evaluate your situation. It would be inappropriate to propose potential explanations without a full history and clinical diagnostic information.

Before you actually see the specialist, sit down and write out a full history. Include any allergens that you know you are sensitive to, your work environment, as well as your home environment(age of home, basement?, pets,etc.). This will give the physician a clearer picture to balance out what is learned in the testing.

Good luck.
Marc

Asthma

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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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